This is a very high-quality instrument, even though not especially fancy. Thompson & Odell offered three grades of Luscomb Banjeurines this is the "#7" model. This one has by most standards an *oversized* head, measuring more than 13" in diameter giving a very deep sound indeed. Originally they were meant to be tuned to a higher pitch to play melody parts in the banjo ensembles of the 1890s while retaining the mellower tone of a full-size head. All Luscomb banjo are fairly rare, this Banjeurine even more so. This was actually the retail store of Thompson & Odell who marketed (and possible made) them. The instrument bears Luscomb's August, 1888 patent date and address in Boston on the dowel plate: 523 Washington street. He claimed this "produces a most wonderful tone" and who are we to disagree! This banjo conforms to is the earlier of two styles Luscomb patented, so was built between 1888 and the early '90s. Luscomb's rim concept was unique reversing the standard "modern" design of a metal tone ring over a wooden rim, his patented rim used a wooden tone ring inserted into a turned metal rim. He was a teacher and designer in Boston in the 1880s who had his own banjo ideas, a not uncommon proposition in that age of invention. Well into the 21st century "Luscomb" is one of those half-forgotten names known only to vintage 5-string afficionados. 1890, made in Boston, Mass., serial # 2639, natural finish, metal rim, mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard, black gig bag case. Luscomb Style #7 Model Banjeaurine, made by Thompson & Odell, c.
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